Diary: Swastika-wearing Hitler show causes Fuhrer-e

And the prize for most misjudged publicity stunt of the week goes to Theater Konstanz in Germany.

The venue is staging a production about Hitler, named after his book Mein Kampf, and has been encouraging audiences to claim free tickets by accepting a swastika to wear on their arm upon arrival. That’s right, readers – a swastika. Well that doesn’t sound offensive at all, does it?

Apparently, though, some 50 people signed up to the idea of a free seat (cheapskates), but those who do accept the swastika will have to return it at the end of the performance.

Just in case, you know, they were planning on keeping it and incorporating it into their everyday wardrobe.

The theatre argues that it’s about reinvigorating the conversation about the dangers of fascism, and has added that anyone paying will be asked to wear the Star of David.

Local mayor Andreas Osner said the theatre should be allowed freedom of artistic expression but claimed it had “overstepped the mark in an irresponsible way”. Which is one way of putting it.

Tabard suspects the theatre may come to regret this decision. If it hasn’t already…

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Tabard is The Stage's resident gossip and diarist. The longest serving member of the editorial team, no one can remember quite how long he's been poking his nose around the stage door or infiltrating parties. Come to think of it, no one can remember the last time he made an appearance in the office. Which begs the question: just who is he?